RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Energetics and Glutamate in Schizophrenia

This research study aims to understand schizophrenia better by looking at brain activity and chemical levels. Researchers will use special MRI and PET-MR scans to compare healthy volunteers with people who have schizophrenia. They are particularly interested in how the brain uses sugar (glucose) and produces other chemicals like lactate and glutamate. The study wants to find out if people with schizophrenia use less brain glucose, produce more lactate, or have more varied levels of glutamate in their brains. Finding these differences could lead to new ways of thinking about and treating schizophrenia in the future. Participants will have a health check, followed by two types of brain scans.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

King's College London

Enrolment target

Start

04 Mar 2024

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2028

Schizophrenia

What is this study about?

This research study, called 'Energetics and Glutamate in Schizophrenia,' is designed to help us learn more about how the brain works in people with schizophrenia compared to healthy individuals. The main goal is to look at specific chemicals and brain activity to see if there are any differences. Scientists believe that understanding these differences could be really important for developing new and better ways to help people with schizophrenia.

The study focuses on a few key areas: how the brain uses sugar, known as glucose utilisation; how much of a chemical called lactate the brain produces; and the levels of another brain chemical called glutamate. We all need glucose for energy, and glutamate is important for brain communication. By comparing measurements of these in healthy volunteers and those with schizophrenia, researchers hope to uncover clues about what might be different in the brains of people with schizophrenia.

To do this, participants will have special types of brain scans: an MRI scan and a PET-MR scan. These scans are like advanced cameras that allow doctors to see inside the brain and measure these chemical levels and activity without needing to do any surgery. The information gathered from these scans could provide valuable insights into the underlying causes of schizophrenia.

Key takeaways

The study aims to understand brain chemistry in schizophrenia.
It compares healthy people with those who have schizophrenia.
Special MRI and PET-MR brain scans will be used.
Researchers are looking at how the brain uses sugar and other chemicals.
The findings could help improve future treatments for schizophrenia.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two main groups of people: healthy volunteers and people who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Both men and women between the ages of 18 and 65 years old can take part.

If you have schizophrenia, the study is interested in two types of experiences: those whose symptoms are currently well-managed by medication and those whose symptoms have been more challenging to treat. You would also need to be taking certain antipsychotic medications and generally taking them as prescribed.

There are some reasons why someone might not be able to join, no matter which group they are in. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have diabetes, or have certain metal implants or devices in your body that make MRI scans unsafe. Also, if you get very anxious in enclosed spaces or have recently had a lot of medical scans involving radiation, you might not be able to participate. It's really important that you feel comfortable and safe during all parts of the study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
Do you have a diagnosis of schizophrenia, or are you a healthy volunteer?
Are you currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do you have diabetes or take diabetes medication?
Do you have any metal implants (like a pacemaker or certain dental work) that would make an MRI scan unsafe?
Are you comfortable in enclosed spaces like an MRI scanner?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, here’s what you can expect. First, you'll have a screening visit. This is like a health check-up where the study team will ask you some questions about your health and medical history to make sure the study is a safe and good fit for you.

After the screening visit, if you are eligible, you will have two special brain scans: an MRI scan and a PET-MR scan. These scans involve lying still in a machine while it takes pictures of your brain. They are not painful, but the machines can be a bit noisy. The study team will explain everything to you in detail and make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

There are no medications or long-term follow-up visits specifically for this study beyond the scans. The total duration of your participation will involve these few visits and scans, likely spread over a short period. You will continue with any medication you are currently taking as prescribed by your own doctor.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study won't directly improve your health, but the information gained could greatly help us understand schizophrenia better in the future, potentially leading to new treatments. The main risks are linked to the scans themselves. MRI scans use strong magnets and radio waves, which are generally safe but require careful checks for metal in or on your body. PET-MR scans involve a very small amount of radiation, similar to what you'd naturally be exposed to in a year. The study team will explain these risks fully, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

South London and the Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that can affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can lead to changes in perception, thoughts, and emotions, but people with schizophrenia can and do live fulfilling lives.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body, in this case, your brain. It doesn't use X-rays.

What is a PET-MR scan?

A PET-MR scan combines two types of imaging – PET and MRI – into one. It helps researchers see not only the structure of your brain but also how it's working at a chemical level.

Will I get to see my scan results?

The scans are for research purposes, so the images are mostly used to collect data for the study. If anything unexpected is found that needs medical attention, the study team will let you know and discuss it with your doctor.

Do I have to pay to join the study?

No, you will not have to pay anything to take part in this research study. In fact, you may be reimbursed for your travel or time.

How to find out more

Alice Egerton, PhD

EAGLES_study@kcl.ac.uk +442078480721 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.